In a breakthrough victory for Cuban activists, the communist nation of Cuba has begun to adopt regulations related to the right to action after a long campaign by activists.
AFP reports that Cuban citizens’ groups are surprised and delighted that their demands have been accepted for the first Time into law. This is an important step and represents a cultural change in the island nation, where tradition and modernity are at odds.
Cuba’s Council of State approved the legislation yesterday evening, with violators facing fines or prison terms. The decree will take effect 90 days after its announcement.
Ricardo Santana, a 24-year-old photographer, told AFP, “I’m very pleased that we learned of this today because it will not only put an end to animal abuse, but also empower animal protectionists.”
During April 2019, some 500 people marched through downtown Havana, the capital, to demand legislation to protect animals, the first independent and non-political demonstration in the history of the one-party state of Cuba.
In recent years, many people in Havana have started keeping pets in their homes, despite the fact that many cannot afford to import pet feed and medical supplies.
The streets of Cuba are filled with stray dogs and cats, most of whom are in poor condition and often abandoned for economic reasons. The lucky ones are brought back to the care of individuals or animal welfare groups, who sometimes prefer to starve themselves in order to feed their animals.
Dog and chicken fighting is considered illegal under animal protection laws, but animal sacrifice in the Santeria religion is not. Santeria is widespread in Cuba, which has a population of 11 million.
Recent Comments